When I first decided to explore the Dayara Bugyal Trek, I realized most people talk about its beauty, but very few clearly explain how to actually reach those vast green meadows. If you’re planning this trek, I’ll make it simple and straightforward for you—no fluff, just the exact route and tips you’ll need to get there smoothly.
Getting to Dehradun – The Gateway
The first step is reaching Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, which acts as the gateway for most treks in this region. Luckily, Dehradun is well-connected by train, road, and air.
- By Air – Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun has daily flights from Delhi and other major cities. From the airport, Raithal (the base village) is about 185 km away.
- By Train – The Dehradun Express and Nanda Devi Express are popular options from Delhi. An overnight train is the easiest way if you prefer saving daytime for travel.
- By Bus – Regular Volvo and state buses run overnight from ISBT Delhi to Dehradun. If you’re budget-conscious, this is the best way to travel.
I personally took an overnight train—it was comfortable, and I woke up fresh in Dehradun, ready for the mountain drive ahead.
Dehradun to Raithal – The Road Journey
After reaching Dehradun, the next goal is to reach Raithal village, which is the official base for the trek. The distance is roughly 185 km, and it usually takes 7–8 hours by road.
The route is:
Dehradun – Mussoorie – Uttarkashi – Bhatwari – Raithal
Here’s what you can expect on the way:
- The drive passes along the Bhagirathi River, offering scenic views throughout.
- You’ll cross charming villages and terraced fields.
- Roads are well-maintained, though winding, so keep motion sickness medicine if you need it.
Transport options:
- From Dehradun and Uttarkashi, shared taxis and jeeps are accessible.
- Private taxis are more comfortable and flexible, especially if you’re traveling with friends.
When I traveled, I opted for a private cab—it cost a bit more, but the freedom to stop for chai breaks and photos along the way was worth it.
The Trek Route – Step by Step
This is where the adventure truly begins. The trek from Raithal to Dayara Bugyal is not just about reaching the meadows; it’s about experiencing the gradual change in landscapes.
Day 1: Raithal to Gui (Approx. 4 km)
- Altitude gain: 7,400 ft to 9,500 ft
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Gentle climb through oak, maple, and rhododendron forests
The first stretch is peaceful. You walk through dense forests, hear birdsong, and occasionally catch glimpses of distant snow peaks. Gui, the campsite, is a lovely clearing surrounded by pine trees.
Day 2: Gui to Dayara Bugyal (Approx. 6 km)
- Altitude gain: 9,500 ft to 11,800 ft
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Terrain: Gradual ascent, meadows begin to open up
This is the highlight of the trek. The forest slowly thins out, and suddenly, vast alpine meadows stretch out in every direction. Walking through them feels almost surreal. In the backdrop, peaks such as Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, and Black Peak rise majestically.
Optional Extension: Dayara Bugyal to Bakaria Top (Approx. 3 km)
If you still have energy, a further climb to Bakaria Top (12,200 ft) is worth it. It offers panoramic views that make the effort absolutely rewarding.
Best Season to Visit Dayara Bugyal
The meadow looks different depending on when you visit, so the timing of your trek makes a huge difference.
- Summer (May–June) – The meadows are lush green, with wildflowers blooming everywhere. Perfect for first-timers.
- Autumn (September–October) – Clear skies and golden meadows, with stunning mountain views.
- Winter (December–January) – Dayara turns into a snow trek, one of the most beautiful short winter treks in Uttarakhand.
I trekked in late September, and the golden-orange hues of the grass combined with crisp mountain air made it magical.
Why Go With a Trekking Company
Now, let’s be honest—you can do this trek independently, but having done both solo and guided treks in the Himalayas, I found a guided trek far more convenient.
A company takes care of:
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mats)
- Meals (hot, freshly cooked food at high altitude)
- Permits and safety measures
- Experienced trek leaders and local guides
When I went, I joined The Searching Souls (TSS). What I liked most was that they struck a balance—organized enough to feel safe as per their dayara bugyal trek package, but not so rigid that it felt “touristy.” It gave me space to just enjoy the trek without worrying about logistics.
Essential Tips Before You Go
To make sure your trek is smooth, here are a few quick tips:
- Carry a good backpack with rain cover
- Wear trekking shoes with ankle support
- Keep warm clothes—even summer nights get chilly at high altitude
- Don’t forget water bottles and personal medicines
- Stay hydrated and walk at a steady pace to avoid altitude issues
Final Thoughts
The Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of the most accessible yet rewarding Himalayan treks. Just two days of walking, and you find yourself standing on a meadow so vast, it feels endless. Add to that the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, and you’ll know why this trek is unforgettable.
The route is simple: reach Dehradun → drive to Raithal → trek via Gui → arrive at Dayara Bugyal. If you keep 5–6 days in hand, including travel time, you can comfortably enjoy this trek without rushing.
For me, this trek was a reminder that sometimes the simplest trails lead to the most extraordinary places. If you’re planning, trust me—it’s worth every step.
